A Self-Charging Concentration Cell: Theory

Batteries are a key resource in the quest for sustainable energy. Here, theoretical basis is presented new type of electrochemical concentration cell that might contribute to this enterprise. The cell, which has been successfully demonstrated laboratory, incorporates chemically asymmetric membrane drive anisotropic diffusion between two solution chambers; resulting difference powers cell. In study, membrane’s operation validated via three approaches: (i) traditional equilibrium thermodynamics; (ii) balancing drift and current densities; (iii) time-independent equation. physical criteria its developed dimensionless variables identified. cell’s maximum instantaneous power density exceed 107 W/m3. Its self-charging capability should confer multiple advantages over cells (as well as some voltaics), including improved thermodynamic efficiency, economy, compactness. Commonalities with other systems (e.g., liquid chromatography, metal corrosion, solid state diodes) discussed, instantiation reviewed. Recent numerical simulations corroborate essential processes.